Five different ways to give medication to cats
May 7, 2024
Giving cats medication in tablet form can often be tricky; you can’t explain to your cat what is happening and why they need the tablets, and your cat’s natural reaction may be to scarper or scratch and bite you.
Don’t fret; Nurture’s experienced nurses are here to help! They have shared below five different ways to give medication to cats, most of which should ensure a calm cat and no injuries to you.
If, after reading our article, you have further questions or are not feeling confident in giving your cat medication home, talk to our veterinary nursing team in Wells or Weston who will be happy to help.
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How to give your cat a tablet
Administering medication to your feline companion doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a variety of methods available, you can find the approach that works best for you and your cat. Here are five effective ways, tried and tested by our Wells & Weston veterinary nurses, to give a cat medication:
- Direct Administration: This involves placing the tablet directly at the back of your cat’s tongue. Hold the tablet between your thumb and index finger, tilt your cat’s head slightly upwards, and place the tablet deep into their mouth. Follow up with a gentle massage of the throat to encourage swallowing. This method won’t be right for all cats and you may need a second person to hold your cat. If you think this will be too distressing for your cat and you are at risk of being scratched or bitten, our nurses advice for cat owners in Wells & Weston is to try one of the methods below instead.
- Crush & Mix: For cats who are finicky about taking tablets, crushing the medication and mixing it with their food can be a viable option. Ask our team whether your cat’s medication is safe to crush, as some tablets are formulated for extended release and should not be altered. Mix the crushed tablet thoroughly with a small amount of their favourite wet food to mask any bitterness.
- Hide in Treats or Food: Another effective method is hiding the tablet in a high-value treat or food item. Choose a treat that your cat loves and carefully conceal the tablet inside. For example, you can use a small piece of cooked chicken or a dollop of tuna. Be sure to monitor your cat to ensure they consume the entire treat, including the hidden tablet.
- Pill Pockets: Pill pockets are specially designed treats with a hollow centre where you can insert the tablet. These treats are available in various flavours and textures, making them an appealing option for many cats. Simply place the tablet inside the pill pocket, pinch the ends to seal it shut, and offer it to your cat as a tasty snack.
- Liquid Medication: If your cat is particularly resistant to taking tablets, you can ask your vet if the medication is available in liquid form. Liquid medication can be easier to administer, especially for cats who are skilled at spitting out tablets. If liquid medication is available, our Wells or Weston veterinary team can provide you with a syringe or dropper to accurately measure and administer the prescribed dosage.
Our cat-loving team recommend experimenting with these different methods to find the one that works best for your cat’s individual preferences and temperament. Remember to always follow your vet’s instructions regarding medication dosage and administration.
Read more about the care we provide to cats in Wells & Weston.
If you’re unsure about the best approach for your cat, we’re here to help. Talk to the nurses at our Wells or Weston vet practice for guidance and support. With patience and persistence, you can ensure that your cat receives the medication they need to stay happy and healthy.
Connect with us to arrange a nurse appointment
Before you go, May 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of Veterinary Nurse Awareness Month (VNAM), a month-long celebration of veterinary nurses everywhere for their hard work and commitment to providing the very best care for pets and people. We know our nursing team would love to hear from you, so why not share how they have helped you and your pet on our Facebook page, with the hashtag #VNAM24
